School vouchers may sound like an opportunity for 'school choice,' but in reality, they drain vital resources from Tennessee's public schools. With each voucher pulling an estimated $10,000 per student from public education budgets, the promise of opportunity is often out of reach for low-income families, and public schools are left to bear the brunt of funding cuts. In this blog, Oak Ridge Board of Education candidate Ashley Craven breaks down what vouchers really mean, how they work under Tennessee's new TISA funding model, and why supporting public education is critical for our community's future.

Not only do we need to send representatives to Nashville who will fight against vouchers, but we also need to elect local leaders who will stand up for our public schools and do everything they can to protect them.

“On social media, he sidesteps direct questions about it… and interestingly, he's being supported by Team Kids, PAC, a dark money group advocating for the privatization of our public schools.

They are about as pro-voucher as it gets. As the saying goes, if it quacks like a duck and walks like a duck, if it doesn’t say outright say it’s anti-voucher… it's probably a duck.”

I had hoped Scarbrough would offer a hopeful alternative, but, he was equally disappointing. His main concern was the border – an odd focus for a state representative in Tennessee – and he dodged questions about vouchers with the skill of a politician. His answer? “I’ll be looking for accountability.” Translation: I support vouchers but won’t say it outright.

The heart of effective organizing beats in the ability to meet people where they are, both physically and ideologically. This approach is not just about increasing voter turnout; it’s about fostering a deeper understanding and commitment to civic participation.

It was a call to action for those of us who believe in a future where healthcare is accessible to all, where our schools are centers of learning and opportunity, and where our libraries are sanctuaries of free expression and exploration. It is a reminder that the path forward, though seemingly impassible with obstacles, is also paved with the potential for profound progress and renewal.